4 Ways to Get your furry friends through winter!! Brrrrrr

Posted by Lexi
on
January 07, 2016

Baby its cold outside and when it is don't forget the Puppers get cold too! Here are some great tips for keeping your 4 legged friend safe in the winter weather!! Thanks Modern Dog for sharing this with your peeps!

The pet welfare experts at the Ontario SPCA share their top four tips for winter pet safety!

#1 Keep your dogs warm
It may seem like common sense, but if you feel it’s too cold for you,
chances are it’s too cold for your dog! Although some breeds can
withstand colder temperatures (think Northern breeds), most dogs are
accustomed to indoor temperatures and don’t want to be outside for long
periods of time. Dogs with less furry coats, smaller dogs, and those
closer to the ground could benefit from a winter jacket.
When your dogs are inside, give them a comfy place to sleep that’s
elevated and away from any drafts. This is especially important if your
dogs are really young, really old (super seniors!) or unwell. Many dogs
love to burrow, making the addition of a cozy blanket much appreciated.

#2 Pet Grooming
Wipe your dog’s paws—both the underside and between the pads—after
they’ve been outside. This is important because salt and chemical ice
melters can irritate and burn your dog’s paws. These substances can also
be fatal if ingested! But don’t think paw cleaning means more baths.
Too much bathing, especially during the dry, cold winter season, can dry
out your dog’s skin and create irritation and itchiness.

#3 Beware the H2O
Puddles pose a danger to dogs because they may contain ethylene glycol,
found in antifreeze, which can be fatal if ingested. So no drinking
from winter puddles! Larger bodies of water are also good to steer clear
of. Melting or thin ice, as well as rising water levels can create a
dangerous environment for your dog.

#4 Be Prepared for Extreme Winter Weather and Super Storms
Climate change has resulted in extreme and unpredictable weather
conditions. You never know when a storm might hit and keep you from
leaving your house. An emergency pet survival kit can save your pet’s
life in these circumstances. Find tips on creating one at ontariospca.ca/ep.

Pro Tip: Protect animals in your area by using salt-free, non-toxic, environmentally friendly de-icers like Safe Paw Ice Melter (safepaw.com). And make sure you have no dangerous-to-pets antifreeze leaks or spills!